Thinking Like a Scientist and Engineer

Grade 3 Science Week 1 Discovering How We Solve Problems

Learning Objectives - I Can Statements

I can explain what scientists and engineers do I can identify the steps scientists use to solve problems I can describe how engineers design solutions I can work like a scientist by asking questions

What Do You Think?

What is a scientist? What is an engineer? How do they help us every day?

Scientists: Nature's Detectives

Scientists ask questions about the world They observe and explore to find answers They study plants, animals, space, and more They share what they learn with others

Engineers: Problem Solvers

Engineers design and build things to help people They solve problems by creating solutions They build bridges, toys, computers, and more They test their ideas to make them better

The Scientific Method: How Scientists Work

The Engineering Design Process

Let's Think Like Scientists!

Activity: Paper Airplane Investigation Question: Which design flies the farthest? Make predictions, test, and record results Work with a partner to compare findings

Engineer a Solution!

Challenge: Build a tower with marshmallows and toothpicks Goal: Make it as tall as possible Test your design and improve it Share your solution with the class

Success Criteria & Next Steps

Today I learned how scientists ask questions and test ideas I discovered how engineers solve problems by designing solutions I practiced thinking like a scientist and engineer Tomorrow: We'll explore more about asking good scientific questions